Corned Beef Egg Rolls: A Delicious Twist on a Classic

Recipes Italian Chef

Corned Beef Egg Rolls: A Delicious Twist on a Classic

Corned beef and cabbage is a St. Patrick’s Day staple. But what if you could enjoy those same flavors in a fun, crispy, and portable package? Enter the corned beef egg roll! This recipe takes the traditional Irish flavors and transforms them into an appetizer or snack that’s perfect for parties, game day, or simply a unique weeknight treat. This recipe provides detailed instructions on how to create these savory delights, as well as tips and tricks for achieving the perfect crispy exterior and flavorful filling.

## Why Corned Beef Egg Rolls?

* **Unique Flavor Combination:** The salty, savory corned beef pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the cabbage and the slight spice of the mustard. Encasing it all in a crispy egg roll wrapper creates a textural delight.
* **Easy to Customize:** You can easily adjust the ingredients to your liking. Add carrots, potatoes, or even some sauerkraut for extra flavor and texture. Experiment with different sauces for dipping.
* **Great for Leftovers:** Got leftover corned beef from your St. Patrick’s Day feast? This is the perfect way to use it up! You can also make a batch of corned beef specifically for these egg rolls.
* **Perfect for Sharing:** These egg rolls are a crowd-pleaser! They’re easy to eat and always a hit at parties.
* **Surprisingly Simple to Make:** Despite their impressive appearance, these egg rolls are surprisingly easy to make. With a little practice, you’ll be a pro in no time.

## Ingredients You’ll Need:

* **Corned Beef:** 1 pound, cooked and shredded or finely chopped. Using pre-cooked corned beef from the deli is a convenient option. Make sure it’s relatively lean to avoid greasy egg rolls.
* **Cabbage:** 1/2 head, finely shredded. Green cabbage is traditional, but you can also use savoy cabbage for a slightly milder flavor.
* **Onion:** 1/2 medium, finely chopped. Yellow or white onion works well.
* **Carrot (Optional):** 1/2 medium, finely shredded. Adds a touch of sweetness and color.
* **Potatoes (Optional):** 1/2 cup, cooked and diced small. Use leftover boiled potatoes or roast some specifically for the egg rolls. Avoid overcooking them to prevent them from becoming mushy.
* **Swiss Cheese (Optional):** 4 ounces, shredded. Adds a creamy, melty element to the filling. Can substitute with provolone or mozzarella if preferred.
* **Dijon Mustard:** 2 tablespoons. Adds a tangy, slightly spicy flavor that complements the corned beef.
* **Worcestershire Sauce:** 1 tablespoon. Enhances the savory flavor of the filling.
* **Egg Roll Wrappers:** 20-25 wrappers. Spring roll wrappers are thinner and crispier, while egg roll wrappers are thicker and chewier. Choose your preference.
* **Vegetable Oil:** For frying. Canola oil or peanut oil also work well.
* **Egg Wash:** 1 egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon of water. Used to seal the egg rolls.
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste.

**Dipping Sauce Options:**

* **Thousand Island Dressing:** A classic pairing with corned beef.
* **Spicy Mustard:** For an extra kick.
* **Horseradish Sauce:** Adds a creamy, pungent flavor.
* **Sweet Chili Sauce:** A sweet and spicy option that complements the savory filling.
* **Irish Whiskey Mustard:** (Recipe Below) A sophisticated and flavorful option.

## Instructions:

### 1. Prepare the Filling:

* **Sauté the Vegetables:** In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. If using, add the shredded carrot and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
* **Add the Cabbage:** Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
* **Incorporate the Corned Beef:** Add the shredded or chopped corned beef, cooked potatoes (if using), Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
* **Melt the Cheese (Optional):** If using Swiss cheese, add it to the skillet and stir until melted and evenly distributed throughout the filling. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly before assembling the egg rolls.

### 2. Assemble the Egg Rolls:

* **Set Up Your Workspace:** Place a cutting board or clean surface in front of you. Have the egg roll wrappers, filling, egg wash, and a clean plate or baking sheet ready.
* **Position the Wrapper:** Place one egg roll wrapper on the cutting board with a corner pointing towards you (like a diamond shape).
* **Add the Filling:** Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the corned beef mixture into the center of the wrapper. Avoid overfilling, as this can make the egg rolls difficult to seal and prone to bursting during frying.
* **Fold the Bottom Corner:** Fold the bottom corner of the wrapper up and over the filling, tucking it in tightly.
* **Fold the Sides:** Fold the left and right corners inward, towards the center, creating a tight seal along the sides.
* **Roll it Up:** Brush the top corner of the wrapper with egg wash. Roll the egg roll up tightly, pressing firmly to seal the edge. The egg wash will act as a glue to hold the wrapper together.
* **Repeat:** Repeat the process with the remaining wrappers and filling. Place the assembled egg rolls on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking.

### 3. Fry the Egg Rolls:

* **Heat the Oil:** Pour about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil into a deep fryer or a large, heavy-bottomed pot. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature. If the oil is too cold, the egg rolls will be greasy. If it’s too hot, they will burn on the outside before the filling is heated through.
* **Fry in Batches:** Carefully place the egg rolls into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding the fryer. Overcrowding can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy egg rolls.
* **Fry Until Golden Brown:** Fry the egg rolls for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Turn them occasionally to ensure even cooking.
* **Drain on Paper Towels:** Remove the fried egg rolls from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

### 4. Serve and Enjoy!

* **Serve Immediately:** Corned beef egg rolls are best served hot and crispy. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce.
* **Garnish (Optional):** Garnish with chopped green onions or a sprinkle of parsley for added visual appeal.

## Tips for Perfect Corned Beef Egg Rolls:

* **Don’t Overfill:** Overfilling the egg rolls is a common mistake. It makes them difficult to seal and can cause them to burst during frying. Use just enough filling to create a plump but manageable egg roll.
* **Seal Tightly:** Make sure to seal the egg rolls tightly with egg wash to prevent the filling from leaking out during frying. Pay special attention to the corners and the final seam.
* **Maintain Oil Temperature:** Keeping the oil at a consistent temperature is crucial for achieving crispy, evenly cooked egg rolls. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature and adjust the heat as needed.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Fryer:** Frying too many egg rolls at once can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy egg rolls. Fry in batches, leaving enough space between each egg roll.
* **Drain Well:** Drain the fried egg rolls on paper towels to remove excess oil. This will help them stay crispy.
* **Make Ahead (Partial):** You can assemble the egg rolls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Cover them with plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out. Fry them just before serving.
* **Freezing (Uncooked):** You can also freeze the uncooked egg rolls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag or container. Fry them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
* **Use Quality Ingredients:** The quality of your ingredients will directly impact the flavor of the egg rolls. Use good quality corned beef and fresh vegetables.

## Variations and Substitutions:

* **Vegetarian Option:** Substitute the corned beef with cooked lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian version. Add some smoked paprika to mimic the smoky flavor of corned beef.
* **Spicy Egg Rolls:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
* **Different Cheeses:** Experiment with different cheeses, such as pepper jack or Gouda, for a unique flavor.
* **Air Fryer Option:** For a healthier option, you can air fry the egg rolls. Brush them with oil and air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
* **Baked Egg Rolls:** You can also bake the egg rolls. Brush them with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
* **Add Sauerkraut:** Add some drained sauerkraut to the filling for a tangy twist.

## Irish Whiskey Mustard Dipping Sauce:

This sophisticated dipping sauce adds a touch of Irish flair to your corned beef egg rolls.

**Ingredients:**

* 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
* 2 tablespoons Irish whiskey
* 1 tablespoon honey
* 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
* 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
* Pinch of salt and pepper

**Instructions:**

1. In a small bowl, whisk together all the ingredients until smooth and creamy.
2. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add more honey for sweetness or more whiskey for a stronger flavor.
3. Serve chilled with the corned beef egg rolls.

## Nutrition Information (approximate, per egg roll):

* Calories: 150-200
* Protein: 8-12g
* Fat: 8-12g
* Carbohydrates: 10-15g

*Note: Nutritional information can vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*

Corned beef egg rolls are a fun and flavorful way to enjoy the classic taste of corned beef and cabbage. Whether you’re looking for a unique appetizer, a tasty snack, or a creative way to use up leftovers, this recipe is sure to be a hit. With a little practice, you’ll be making these crispy delights like a pro. So gather your ingredients, get ready to roll, and enjoy a delicious twist on a St. Patrick’s Day favorite!

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